Columnar Jointing Earth Cache EarthCache
Columnar Jointing Earth Cache
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The Ossipees was once an active volcano and is easy to find on a topographical map. The circular crater is easy to identify and can be reached by traveling to Castle in the Clouds. This geographical formation was created during the Jurassic Period from an ancient volcanic ring dyke. A dike is a crack in the bedrock that is filled in with magma.
The coordinates for this cache will bring you to an area where there are examples of “columnar jointing”. This unusual rock formation occurred when the lava lost its heat upward in the air or downward to the ground. These joints can resemble stacked firewood showing how the heat loss came to the surface. Other examples of this can be found elsewhere in the country. To log this cache you will need to e-mail me the answers to the following questions: 1. What particular shape are each of the columns? 2. In what direction do these columns point? Why? 3. What other two examples of “columnar jointing” in the U.S. are mentioned on the sign at the coordinates? 4. How do these rocks show evidence that this area was once the site of an active volcano? You are encouraged to also post a picture of yourself or your group at this spot, but it is not required.
Take the time to hike the many trails that are maintained by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust. This organization has revitalized the network of trails and old carriage roads around an estate known as Castle in the Clouds. You may want to tour the castle, visit the horse stable, or find other geocaches in the area!
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Treasures
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